Former park and ride site to become UK's first 'green corridor'
It's after the National Trust acquired Bathampton Meadows from BANES Council
Bath is going to be the first place in the country to get a so-called 'green corridor'.
The National Trust says it'll link the centre of Bath to the countryside, as well as creating a new habitat for wildlife.
It'll run through Bathampton Meadows - previously a mixture of farmland and council-owned land, which at one point was being considered as a site for a new park and ride.
The trust has plans for a programme of hedgerow and tree planting along the three-mile route to create a network of foraging habitat to help the declining greater horseshoe bat.
It also intends to improve wetlands to support wading birds and provide a boost for wildflowers and insects.
The corridor is aimed at helping people living in the town centre get closer to nature, and it's one of 20 planned across England, Wales and Northern Ireland by 2030.
A consultation on the proposals is due to start in the spring.
Hilary McGrady, director-general of the National Trust, said: "These routes will improve access to nature for those living in urban areas who may feel disconnected from the countryside or cannot access rural areas easily.
"Research has shown that engaging with nature is good for our wellbeing and that those connected to nature are likely to do more to help protect it."
She added: "Connecting up green spaces isn't just good for people, it's also good for wildlife, allowing animals and birds to move from one habitat to another."
The official start and end point of the corridor has yet to be determined, but should start close to Bath Abbey and is expected to finish in the village of Batheaston.